A study published in the Toxicological Sciences journal, found that tiny bits of plastic, called microplastics are present in human placenta.
Scientists at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences have used a new tool to check how much of these microplastics are in human placentas and it was detected in all 62 placenta samples examined, with concentrations varying between 6.5 and 790 micrograms per gram of tissue.
Researchers suggest that increasing concentration of microplastics might be connected to health issues like inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, and declining sperm counts.
Matthew Campen, the lead researcher, expresses concern over the increasing levels of microplastics. He suggests that if these particles can affect placentas, it could impact all mammalian life.
Polyethylene, commonly found in plastic bags and bottles, constituted 54% of the total plastics detected in placental tissue, according to the researchers.
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